Hello friends, family, and even strangers who may see this.

Karen Ryan has been my best friend for over four decades. Over the past ten years, she has endured more heartache and loss than anyone should have to face, and she just can’t seem to catch a break.

Four years ago, Karen lost the love of her life, Ray. His passing turned her world upside down. Like all of us, she has faced personal struggles, but the last five years have been especially difficult, with profound health and personal challenges.

In October 2024, Karen underwent a right knee replacement, which healed successfully. In March 2025, she had her left knee replaced—and that’s where things took a devastating turn. She developed serious complications and an infection, leading to four surgeries on the same leg. Unfortunately, the most recent surgery in October 2025 did not heal as hoped.

Karen has been living with extreme, unrelenting pain and instability since then. At her follow-up appointment last week, after reviewing new X-rays, her surgeon confirmed what we were all hoping would not be necessary: the only remaining option is an above-the-knee amputation.

While this news was absolutely devastating, it wasn’t entirely unexpected. Her surgeon had done everything possible to avoid this outcome and had warned that this might be necessary if the surgery failed. Due to mesh and bone cement used in the last operation, further repair attempts are no longer possible.

Karen has been off work for a year and a half, and her future feels scary and uncertain right now. Still, she remains strong and determined, with hopes and dreams for a brighter future ahead. She is young enough to rebuild—but she needs help.

As Karen prepares for amputation surgery (hopefully in March—she is currently waiting for the call), she will need to make modifications to her home to accommodate life as an amputee. Once healed, a prosthetic will hopefully be an option, but the road ahead is long.

Asking for help is never easy, but when someone does, you know how much they’re carrying. Any donation, no matter the amount, will go directly to Karen and help ease some of the financial stress during this overwhelming time.

If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing this GoFundMe on your social media is incredibly helpful. Karen also has a deep faith in God, which continues to carry her through—please keep her in your prayers if that’s all you’re able to do.

Updates will be shared as soon as surgery is scheduled.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for reading, for caring, and for supporting Karen in any way—by donating, sharing, praying, or all three. ❤️

Sincerely,

Lynne & Karen